Shenton believes in Magic

Castleford and England centre Michael Shenton thinks that the Magic Weekend is a great event to be held in a place like Newcastle.

The event is developing a reputation for a carnival atmosphere, with the concept bedded in with fans now, and Shenton feels that Newcastle is an appropriate venue for the occasion.

“I’m really looking forward to the Magic Weekend,” he said, speaking at the event’s launch in Newcastle.

“I’m a real believer in it, I think it’s a great event, for rugby league to come together and everyone playing over the weekend.

“It seems to have a party atmosphere. Newcastle has a reputation for being a bit of a party town as well, so it’s going to be a great weekend all round.”

Castleford have a reasonable record at Magic Weekend in recent years, but Shenton knows that previous pedigree counts for little when it comes to derbies against Wakefield.

“We’ve gone good in the last few years, but Wakefield beat us in the opening game of the season, which was pretty painful for us,” he added.

“So we’re looking for a big reaction from the last couple of weeks as well.”